Atlanta’s Rise as a Global Esports Capital
As one of the fastest-growing industries globally, esports has captured the attention of gamers, spectators, and investors alike. Atlanta, often called the “Silicon Valley of the South,” has established itself as an esports leader thanks to its vibrant gaming culture. With esports contributing more than $750 million annually to Georgia’s economy, the state has become a central hub for gaming and digital entertainment, with Atlanta at its core.
Tripwire Interactive's blockbuster title Killing Floor 2 is set to release its sequel, Killing Floor 3, next month. (Image: Tripwire Interactive)
The Rise of Gaming in Georgia
The gaming industry in Georgia has undergone significant transformation over the past two decades. According to Andrew Greenberg, Executive Director of the Georgia Game Developers Association (GGDA), the industry had a heyday of indie studios and developers all over the state in the 90s but faced a massive decline after the post-9/11 recession. However, following the implementation of the 2005 film tax credit, the industry resurged. This legislation made video games eligible for a tax credit for studios that wanted to open and develop. The boundaries between film and video game development were blurred as technology and production evolved. This was further expanded to include esports and contributed to the state’s exponential growth in the gaming sector. Today, Georgia boasts over 200 gaming studios, including major players like Hi-Rez Studios, Tripwire Interactive, and Blue Mammoth Games. These studios contribute to the state’s economy and enhance its reputation as a leader in digital entertainment.
2022 League of Legends World Championships Semifinals at State Farm Arena (Image: LoL.Fandom.com)
When you think of sporting events and Atlanta, you probably see visions of footballs being thrown across Mercedes-Benz Stadium, soccer fans cheering on Atlanta United, buzzers cutting through the noise at State Farm Arena, and baseballs flying across the outfield at Truist Park. You probably don’t think about video games. However, a new sporting event has become popular in Georgia’s stadiums—esports.
Georgia has been home to several franchised esports teams, such as Atlanta Reign, Hawks Talon, and Atlanta FaZe. These teams have helped place Georgia at the forefront of the esports industry. With a growing fan base and infrastructure, the state has become a hub for competitive gaming that attracts viewing crowds rivaling traditional professional sports.
In November, Atlanta hosted DreamHack, a three-day immersive gaming festival at the Georgia World Congress Center. Drawing over 27,000 attendees from 49 states and 21 countries, the event featured professional tournaments, amateur competitions, and community-building activities. Other major events include the Collegiate Esports Commissioner’s Cup (CECC) in May, which delivered $1.7 million in local economic impact, and Riot Games’ Worlds 2022 League of Legends semifinals at the 16,888-seat State Farm Arena.
Building an Esports Ecosystem
Key organizations such as the Georgia Center of Innovation (COI) and GGDA have instrumentally fostered a robust esports ecosystem. Asante Bradford, COI's senior industry engagement manager, highlighted efforts to promote Georgia as a global esports hub. These efforts include supporting local and indie developers and facilitating their participation in international events like Gamescom and DreamHack, which serve as a cornerstone for Atlanta's esports community.
“Georgia’s esports and video game industry is thriving, fueled by a few key factors: a strong educational foundation with top institutions like Georgia Tech, SCAD, and Kennesaw State University creating a steady talent pipeline; a robust technology sector supporting game development and esports organizations; and a diverse, youthful, tech-savvy culture that resonates with the core esports audience. With these assets, “Georgia is primed to lead the next generation of esports innovation and growth,” says Bradford
“At the Center of Innovation, our role is to bolster this creative industry, and we do that by leveraging connections with other established Georgia industries like sports, film, and music—which share synergies in fan engagement, storytelling, and creative production. Cross-industry collaboration underscores esports’ potential as a valuable contributor to Georgia’s diverse economy.”
GGDA has also been pivotal in advancing education and workforce development within the gaming and esports industries. The organization collaborates with colleges to design gaming curricula and even provides scholarships to shoutcasters, esports' version of play-by-play announcers. GGDA and COI are creating opportunities for the next generation of talent in Georgia by connecting students with industry professionals.
Advancing STEAM through Esports
Esports has become a powerful tool for engaging students in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. Starting as early as elementary school, Georgia introduces students to computer science, with pathways expanding in middle school to include courses like those offered by Forsyth Virtual Academy. These initiatives expose students to career opportunities in gaming and software development.
Additionally, esports has been recognized as an official varsity activity in Georgia. This recognition has led to afterschool esports teams in K-12 and higher education institutions, further integrating gaming into mainstream education. “Georgia now has more than 700 varsity esports teams, playing Rocket League, Madden Football, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, NBA 2K, and Super Smash Bros. The Georgia Department of Education established education standards for esports, allowing students to further their education while competing,” says Greenberg. By blending entertainment with education, esports has proven to be a unique way to spark interest in STEAM disciplines among students who might not otherwise engage with traditional academics
Higher Education and Industry Partnerships
Georgia’s colleges and universities are leading the charge in preparing students for careers in gaming and esports. Strong public-private partnerships have been essential to this effort. Companies like TurnerSports, Hi-Rez Studios, Skillshot Media, and Blue Mammoth Games work directly with the state’s higher education systems to offer internships, develop specialized classes, and create career pathways in digital gaming. These collaborations give students a competitive edge and ensure a steady talent pipeline for Georgia’s growing gaming industry.
A Georgia Tech study underscored the impact of esports in the state, highlighting its role in workforce development and its economic contributions. The research pointed to strategic initiatives, such as the film and digital entertainment tax credits, that have positioned Georgia as a leader in the industry. With esports becoming a dominant force, students and professionals in Georgia are well-equipped to thrive in careers spanning game development, technology, and entertainment.
The Global Stage, Challenges, and Opportunities
Atlanta’s thriving esports scene is amplified by its role as host to major events like DreamHack and SIEGE (Southern Interactive Entertainment and Game Expo). These events attract thousands of attendees, from casual gamers to industry professionals, showcasing the city’s capability to support large-scale, international esports tournaments. Beyond entertainment, these events serve as networking, innovation, and industry growth platforms.
Despite its successes, Georgia faces competition from states like Texas, California, and Washington, which also have thriving gaming industries. Addressing challenges such as increasing the cap on tax incentives and improving esports access in underserved schools will be critical for maintaining Georgia’s leadership. Expanding support for indie developers and small businesses within the esports ecosystem could further solidify the state’s position as a global hub.
“The video game industry has become the fastest growing entertainment industry, and its $200 billion annual sales surpasses film and music combined. The Georgia program provides a shot in the arm for games in development and is capped at $12.5 million per year, with no company able to generate more than $1.5 million. It has played an instrumental role in the Georgia industry growing to its size, but now the program gets maxed out every year,” said Greenberg.
Adding to this potential, Asante Bradford sees infrastructure as a key area for growth. “We see many exciting opportunities for growth in Georgia’s esports industry. New and expanded dedicated esports venues are one asset we hope to see come online as the industry continues to educate investors and stakeholders on the potential return on investment. Georgia has the potential to create world-class esports and video gaming venues that rival national competitors and keep our state’s talented designers, streamers, and players here in Georgia. We’re seeing it right now with the U.S. Soccer Federation’s National Training Center and Headquarters – why not esports too?”
Atlanta and Georgia have successfully positioned themselves as leaders in the esports and gaming industries through strategic investments, educational innovation, and strong partnerships. As the industry continues to evolve, the state’s commitment to fostering talent and driving economic growth ensures its place on the global stage. With a solid foundation and a forward-thinking approach, Atlanta’s esports story is one of innovation, opportunity, and endless potential.